Non-discriminating character of Atticus Finch in Harper Lee's novel to Kill a Mockingbird

A novel as a branch of literature does not only please the readers but also teach the readers. It takes the readers to understand and to learn about life. Many values on a novel which can be applied in the real life and non-discriminating value is one of useful values which can be applied in daily life. This value teaches the readers how to treat people without pride and prejudice. This thesis aims to describe in what ways Atticus Finch demonstrates a non-discriminating character and the factors that influence Atticus Finch to have a non-discriminating character. This thesis is considered a qualitative study in the form of descriptive analysis. The theoretical framework of the analysis is based on the objective theory of M. H. Abrams. It means the analysis is done by analyzing the intrinsic elements of the novel – setting and character(s). The analysis shows that the novel takes place during the America’s Great Depression around 1930’s during that time discrimination toward black people also is vividly portrayed in daily life. Then, the analysis shows that Atticus Finch applies nondiscriminating value toward: (1) other citizens. Atticus sees other citizens as his friends although they do not agree with Atticus’ decision to defend a black man. (2) Mrs. Dubose. Atticus sees her as an old lady with big courage. She tries to get off from morphine addiction because of her sickness. (3) Mr. Cunningham. He is Atticus’ client that comes from a poor family. Atticus lets him pay his services with his harvest. (4) Boo Radley. Atticus sees that no one has the right to judge someone only from their ways of life. (5) Tom Robinson. Atticus sees that all human beings have the same rights before the law, and the right to think and act to pursue all the goods and services. The analysis also states the factors that influence Atticus Finch to have a non-discriminating character; heredity, family, and society. The writer would like to suggest that the readers should be able to apply non-discriminating values in daily life. The writer would also suggest that students of literature class analyze a literary work using objective approach as the basis. At last, the writer would like to suggest other researchers to go more deeply into the analysis of the novel and relate it to real life. The writer also hopes that this study could give benefits for other researchers who want to analyze To Kill A Mockingbird